NASCAR has always been a thrilling and competitive, high-speed sport. So, over the years, we’ve witnessed some incredible races that took our breath away. Naturally, this also means we’ve seen some legendary drivers in action, from the legendary Jimmy Johnson to Kyle Busch.
Today, we’ll take a quick trip down memory lane, running through the list of NASCAR race winners from 2010 through 2024. Whether you watched these races live or are a new fan, this article will remind you why you love this sport!
2010: Jimmie Johnson
Before 2010, Jimmie Johnson had already won 4 championships. But this was the year he solidified his place in history with his fifth trophy win. Jimmie’s feat this year was highlighted by his victory at the AAA 400 at Dover International Speedway, where his strategic navigational skills and pit crew’s efficiency were on full display.
2011: Tony Stewart
Stewart’s 2011 season was nothing short of phenomenal. After a slow start, he won five of the ten playoff races, including a memorable victory at Homestead-Miami Speedway, which gave him his third title in a tiebreaker against Carl Edwards.
2012: Brad Keselowski
Brad Keselowski captured his first NASCAR Cup Series championship in 2012, marking a significant milestone in his career. His win at Talladega Superspeedway was a standout moment, where he had to show incredible technique and fearlessness to navigate the treacherous terrain successfully.
2013: Jimmie Johnson
After falling short in two consecutive attempts, Jimmie finally returned to the top to pick up his sixth NASCAR championship. The man was on fire this year, with his consistency and ability to perform at the highest level shining all season long. If you want a reference, Jimmie’s performance at the AAA 500 Texas remains iconic among long-time fans.
2014: Kevin Harvick
In 2014, Kevin Harvick wrote himself into NASCAR legend by turning in a clutch performance at the final race in Homestead. For GGBET supporters familiar with him, this wasn’t a surprise, given that his ability to deliver when necessary was never in doubt. Yet, this was such a glorious turnout that earned Kevin the nickname “Clutch”!
2015: Kyle Busch
After missing the first 11 races due to injury, Kyle Busch made a remarkable comeback to win the 2015 championship. Seeing how much of a write-off the first half of the season was, Kyle’s 2015 victory is regarded as one of the most resilient in racing history. We saw this resilience pushing him to glory in his outing at the Homestead-Miami Speedway.
2016: Jimmie Johnson
His place wasn’t under any threat, yet Jimmie created history by winning his 7th championship in 2016. At this time, Jimmie’s excellence was already an all too familiar theme. So when he clinched the trophy in a cut-throat race at Homestead, it was a pleasure for everyone!
2017: Martin Truex Jr.
Martin Truex Jr. delivered one of the most iconic seasons in NASCAR history by winning eight races on his way to the championship. Martin was a devastatingly speedy competitor. Take, for instance, his performance at the Las Vegas Motor Speedway, where he led the most laps.
2018: Joey Logano
For many, 2018 was seen as a passing-the-baton season, as the phenomenal Joey Logano won his first NASCAR title. Thanks to a thrilling race at the Homestead-Miami Speedway! It was obvious to see that Joey’s front-foot approach set him apart from others.
2019: Kyle Busch
Throughout the 2019 season, Kyle Busch was a consistent and versatile performer. So, his second championship win was not a surprise to many. Still, Kyle can claim some scintillating performances, particularly his outing at Phoenix Raceway, where he led the most laps and won the race.
2020: Chase Eliot
In 2020, Chase Elliott finally broke through to win his first NASCAR Cup Series championship. His win at Phoenix Raceway was a huge moment, not just for him but his fans, who had been waiting for this day. Elliott’s calm and collected driving style, especially in the final laps, was a screaming testament of his skill.
2021: Kyle Larson
Kyle Larson’s 2021 was all about redemption. After being suspended in 2020, Larson came back stronger than ever, winning the championship with a dominant performance. His win at Phoenix Raceway was the cherry on top of an incredible season.
2022: Joey Logano
Joey Logano clinched his second championship in 2022, proving once again why he was one of the best new faces in the sport. A memorable outing from him was at the Phoenix Raceway, where Joey and his competitors tugged it out until the end.
2023: Ryan Blaney
Ryan Blaney had a breakout year in 2023, winning his first NASCAR Cup Series championship. His journey to the top was marked by hard work and perseverance, helping him to prove he could compete against any driver worldwide.
2024: Joey Logano
Six years after his first victory, Joey clinched his third at the 2024 NASCAR championship. And while his prowess is no stranger to anyone, we must laud his ability to adapt to different race conditions and decide smartly wisely in a split-second.